Victor EzejaOrganized labor is poised to engage in negotiations with the Federal Government, pushing for an increase in the national minimum wage from the current N30,000.
The workforce argues that the current wage has been rendered insufficient due to the 28.9% inflation in December and the removal of the petrol subsidy in May 2023.
Adewale Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, emphasized the widespread impact of inflation, asserting that the diminishing disposable income of the average worker underscores a pressing economic challenge.
“With prices on a continuous upswing, the true value of wages is eroded, resulting in a reduction of purchasing power for individuals already struggling with the rising cost of living,” Oyerinde said.
Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated a 37-member tripartite committee, urging swift resolution as the current N30,000 minimum wage expires in March 2024. Civil servants like Sade express urgency, citing skyrocketing prices of essentials.
Tope, another civil servant, highlights the critical timing of the wage review amid soaring living costs, anticipating effective negotiations by the Nigeria Labour Congress.
“The review of the minimum wage is coming at the right time when prices of food have extremely skyrocketed. Hopefully, the Nigeria Labour Congress would be able to negotiate well with the Federal Government this time,” Tope stated.
The government’s prior approval of a N35,000 monthly wage until the implementation of the new minimum wage offers a temporary reprieve. However, demands persist for President Bola Tinubu to fulfill his commitment, especially in light of subsidy removal.
Amid workers’ concerns, the upcoming negotiations signal hope for relief in a nation grappling with economic challenges, as expressed by employees in the Federal Civil Service.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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